The Russian Defense Ministry revealed that precision sea-based missiles, including hypersonic Zirkon and Kalibr cruise missiles, were launched as part of the drills. An Onyx cruise missile was also fired from a designated coastal area, according to the ministry’s statement on Telegram.

The exercises involved more than 1,000 personnel, 10 vessels, and 24 aircraft, with troop levels in the region significantly increased ahead of the drills. The statement did not disclose the exact location of the maneuvers but noted that Russia maintains a naval base at Tartus in Syria.

The drills come as Assad’s forces face mounting pressure from a rebel offensive that has led to the loss of key areas, including the strategically significant city of Aleppo. Russia has been conducting airstrikes to counter the offensive, reaffirming its role as a critical ally to Assad since the Syrian civil war began in 2011.

The defense ministry shared images of missiles being launched from ships and coastal areas, as well as footage of targets being struck in open waters.

These military activities underscore Moscow’s continued commitment to bolstering Assad’s regime and maintaining its strategic presence in the Mediterranean region. (ILKHA)